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Bacteria Warning Issued In Seal Beach Due To Rain

Public Health officials cautioned residents against swimming at local beaches for at least 72 hours after rainfall.

Public Health officials cautioned residents against swimming at local beaches for at least 72 hours after rainfall.
Public Health officials cautioned residents against swimming at local beaches for at least 72 hours after rainfall. (Nicole Charky/Patch)

SEAL BEACH, CA — The Orange County Healthcare Agency issued a rain advisory due to possible increases of bacteria in ocean waters in all Orange County beaches, including Seal Beach, due to recent rainfall.

The warning was issued until Thursday, Aug. 24 at 9 a.m. after Southern California was hit by the historical Tropical Storm Hilary over the weekend. The advisory will be extended as rain persists at county beaches.

“The Environmental Health staff advises swimmers that levels of bacteria can rise significantly in ocean and bay waters adjacent to storm drains, creeks and rivers,” according to OCHA. “Elevated bacteria levels in ocean water may cause illness, especially in children and the elderly.”

Find out what's happening in Los Alamitos-Seal Beachfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

Officials recommend avoiding contact with ocean water for three days after rainfall to avoid illness, especially near flowing storm drains, creeks and rivers.

Recorded information on beach conditions is available 24 hours a day on OCHA’s website.

Find out what's happening in Los Alamitos-Seal Beachfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

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